Core Value Propositions
Our functional plastic prototypes deliver measurable engineering advantages:
±0.1 mm precision -
Achieved through dedicated CNC precision machining and process optimization; critical mating dimensions remain stable to meet assembly and functional testing requirements
01
Industry-leading lead times -
SLA in 3 days, CNC in 5 days, Urethane Casting in 7–10 days for small batches
02
15+ engineering-grade materials -
From standard ABS to high-performance PEEK and TPU, covering diverse mechanical, thermal, and chemical requirements
03
One-stop surface finishing -
Standardized polishing, painting, texture treatment, and transparent optical polishing
04
Seamless prototype-to-production transition -
DFM data and process parameters generated during prototyping directly guide subsequent injection molding or bridge production, minimizing iteration
05
Material Selection Guide
|
Material |
Tensile Strength (MPa) |
Heat Deflection Temp (°C) |
Transparency |
Recommended Process |
Typical Applications |
|
**ABS** |
40–60 |
80–100 |
Opaque |
FDM / CNC / Urethane |
Consumer electronics prototypes, enclosures |
|
**PC (Polycarbonate)** |
55–75 |
125–140 |
Clear |
CNC / SLA / Urethane |
Transparent prototypes, medical housings |
|
**PC/ABS** |
45–65 |
100–120 |
Opaque |
CNC / FDM |
Automotive prototypes, impact-resistant parts |
|
**PA12 (Nylon)** |
45–55 |
140–180 |
Opaque |
SLS |
Functional durable parts, gears |
|
**PEEK** |
90–105 |
150–170 |
Opaque |
CNC |
High-strength structural components, high-temp medical prototypes |
|
**TPU** |
25–50 |
70–100 |
Translucent |
SLS / Urethane |
Flexible seals, soft-touch parts |
|
**PP** |
25–40 |
60–100 |
Translucent |
CNC / FDM |
Chemical-resistant housings |
|
**PMMA (Acrylic)** |
60–80 |
80–100 |
Optical clear |
CNC / SLA |
Optical clear transparent prototypes |
|
**POM (Acetal)** |
60–70 |
100–120 |
Opaque |
CNC |
Precision gears, low-friction mechanical parts |
Selection guide: Prioritize PC or PA12 for functional certification testing; choose PMMA or PC for optical transparency; select PEEK for high-temperature environments.
Manufacturing Processes
We offer multiple processes to match the specific needs of each functional plastic prototype project:
SLA Prototyping - High precision (±0.05–0.1 mm), smooth surface finish; ideal for medical prototypes, transparent parts, and fine features
SLS Prototyping - Nylon-based, no support structures required; suited for complex internal geometries and durable functional parts
FDM Prototyping - Cost-effective; best for large or proof-of-concept prototypes
CNC Machined Plastic Prototypes - Isotropic material properties, highest dimensional accuracy (±0.05 mm); ideal for engineering-grade validation
Urethane Casting Prototypes - Small-batch production (10–200 pieces) with material properties closely matching final injection-molded parts and excellent surface texture
Surface Finishing Options
We offer a comprehensive range of prototype surface finishes to satisfy both visual and functional requirements:
|
Finish Type |
Description |
|
Standard Polishing |
Ra 1.6 μm - smooth, clean surface |
|
Painting / Bite Texture |
Pantone/RAL color matching with matte, gloss, or texture effects |
|
Electroplating (Ni/Cr) |
Decorative metallic appearance simulation |
|
Screen Printing / Laser Engraving |
Logos, markings, and functional labeling |
|
Optical Clear Polishing |
Photopolymer (SLA) parts polished to optical-grade clarity |
|
Surface Texturing |
Custom grain, leather, or brushed effects |
|
Soft-Touch Coating |
TPU-simulated elastic spray coating |
|
IMD/IML Simulation |
In-mold decoration appearance replication |
Every surface-finished part is accompanied by before-and-after photographs and can be precisely matched to Pantone/RAL colors.
From Prototype to Production
Functional plastic prototypes are not just verification tools - they are a critical step in production preparation. During the prototype stage, we provide DFM analysis covering process window recommendations, wall thickness optimization, and pre-research for mold construction, helping customers identify and eliminate production risks early.
Typical progression:
- Fit & function testing prototype
- Appearance validation prototype
- Low-volume plastic parts / bridge production
- Injection mold development
- Stable mass production
By working with a single supplier across all stages, you gain consistency in material properties, dimensional standards, and quality traceability - significantly reducing switching costs and iteration cycles.
Quality Control
Every functional plastic prototype undergoes rigorous inspection:
CMM three-axis measurement -
Accuracy ±0.01 mm, fully traceable
3D scanning comparison -
GD&T color deviation map
Material property verification -
Hardness, tensile testing
Appearance inspection -
AQL 1.0 standard
◆ Deliverables include: dimensional report, Certificate of Conformance (CoC), and 3D scanning chromatogram report. We hold ISO 9001 certification, ensuring controlled processes and traceable dimensional accuracy.
Application Scenarios
|
Industry |
Application |
|
**Consumer Electronics** |
Phone/headphone enclosures assembled and drop-tested using PC-ABS |
|
**Medical Devices** |
Handheld instrument housings in transparent PC, supporting sterilization validation |
|
**Automotive** |
Interior parts and lamp covers - CNC machining ensures precise fit |
|
**Industrial Equipment** |
Control panels and structural components in SLS nylon for complex geometry and durability |
|
**Aerospace** |
Lightweight structural components in PEEK meeting high-temperature requirements |
|
**Smart Home** |
IoT device housings with multiple surface finishes to validate user experience |
|
**Robotics** |
Shells and joint components for functional validation and soft-hard integration |
|
**Sports & Health** |
Wearable device prototypes with TPU flexible parts for comfort testing |
FAQ
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